Following a complex and lengthy investigation, the provincial command of the Barletta-Andria-Trani Carabinieri carried out an extensive operation this morning against two rival criminal groups. Over 100 Carabinieri were deployed in Canosa di Puglia and Bari, supported by helicopter and dog squads. They executed eleven arrest warrants for serious offenses such as attempted murder, drug trafficking and possession and use of weapons and explosives.
The investigation, codenamed "San Sabino" and running from February 2023 to August 2024, revealed that people in custody were using cell phones to give instructions for drug trafficking and planning shootouts against rival groups in Canosa di Puglia. With the help of telephone and video surveillance, undercover investigations and the analysis of video footage, the Carabinieri were able to identify the structures of the two gangs, which dealt in cocaine, hashish and marijuana and illegally possessed weapons.
The authorities documented an armed confrontation between the families over control of the "Carmine/Padre Pio" drug transshipment point and were able to prevent several planned bloody actions. Six pistols, a silencer and two homemade explosive devices were confiscated. Of particular note is the thwarting of two attempted murders ordered by a detained suspect against members of the rival group.
In the course of the investigation, 16 people were arrested in the act, and a kilogram of drugs and numerous weapons were seized. Seven of the eleven suspects were remanded in custody and four were placed under house arrest. The case is still in the preliminary investigation phase and the guilt of the suspects will have to be established later on.
